Spanish-style Fried Tofu with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In this Spanish adaptation, the traditional Japanese Atsuage is transformed into a Spanish-style dish by replacing the original soy-based sauce with a tomato sauce infused with Spanish spices and herbs. The frying technique remains the same, but the flavors and seasonings are adjusted to suit the Spanish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Atsuage, so you can check it out.

• 400g (14 oz) firm tofu 400g (14 oz) firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the tofu into rectangular pieces.
2. 2.
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu pieces and fry them until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until they are softened and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the canned diced tomatoes, paprika, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the tomato sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Return the fried tofu to the skillet and gently stir it into the tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb some of the flavors.
7. 7.
   Serve the Tofu a la Española hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu — Make sure to drain and pat dry the tofu thoroughly before frying to achieve a crispy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the tomato sauce.
• Serve the Tofu a la Española with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add some chopped chili peppers to the tomato sauce.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Serving advice

Tofu a la Española is best served hot as a main course. Pair it with a side of Spanish rice or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place the Tofu a la Española on a bed of fresh greens and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a sprig of parsley.